Preparation and characterization of Ni–Zn ferrite + polymer nanocomposites using mechanical milling method

Abstract

The insulating properties of Ni–Zn ferrites can be improved by the addition of various types of insulating materials such as polymers, ceramics, etc. In this connection, ferrite–polymer composites have been subjected to extensive research, because they have many applications: electromagnetic interference shielding, rechargeable battery, electrodes and sensors, and microwave absorption. Electrical and magnetic properties of such composites will depend on the size, shape and amount of filler addition. In this paper, we report the preparation and characterization of nanocomposites of Ni–Zn ferrite + paraformaldehyde. These nanocomposites were prepared by using mechanical milling method and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The particle size estimated from SEM pictures for composites varies from 36 to 60 nm. Magnetic properties were measured on nanocomposites at room temperature. The complex permittivity and permeability were measured over a wide frequency range from 1 MHz to 1.8 GHz at room temperature. From our studies, it is observed that both the values of permittivity and permeability decrease with an increase in polymer content.